Here is the latest news from Elmfield House in our monthly newsletter:
PDF version click here: November 2017 newsletter
Recent events:
November has been and gone with lots going on to keep the resident’s entertained.
Pub lunches are still going strong. We have gone to the pub Friday’s recently instead of the usual Wednesday due to Niccii being on a course and having meetings.
Dates for December’s outings are on the poster on the notice board in the porch.
A group of residents and relatives went to the annual Bonfire and Firework display on the green for Bonfire night. This was organised by the scouts and was as busy as ever; it’s amazing to see such large crowds from a relatively small community. The Bonfire kept us lovely and warm and the firework display was wonderful lasting a good half an hour. The fireworks were beautiful colors and there were different types of fireworks, some were very loud making us jump!
A group of residents attended the yearly Remembrance Day service at the Cenotaph on the green. This was an intimate service bringing together members of the community in thought and prayer to remember the fallen ones from the World Wars. This was emotional for our residents as many have memories and recollections of the War years.
Tina from High Kicks and Heels did her monthly show at Elmfield which was thoroughly enjoyed. The majority of residents joined in with instruments and flags. Joh, Vera and Iris even got up for a dance which was lovely.
Bailey the PAT dog has been coming for his fortnight visits. He enjoys being petted and our residents enjoy seeing him. It brings back memories of pets from times gone by.
We have also had our white cat visit us regularly in recent weeks. The cat has been a frequent visitor for a couple of years now and is very affectionate and friendly allowing residents to stroke her and even sits on their knee!
We held a productive Resident and Relatives meeting in November. There was a good attendance so thank you to those who came. We discussed Christmas activities and outings that are planned for over the Festive season. Staffing levels were discussed as was nutrition, a reminder for relatives to check the post box next to the signing in book and also talked about a recent complaint that was made against the home to the CQC which was closed following a report.
The meeting minutes and a copy of the complaint and subsequent report are being posted to all relatives.
On Tuesday 30th November we had Bisley Beavers come to the home to do Christmas activities with our residents and to help decorate the Christmas tree! There was a group of approx. 15 Beavers who were extremely well behaved and enjoyed getting to know our residents as well as sharing ideas and joining in with small group activities.
We had a buffet tea that evening and invited the Beavers to join us.
Niccii had some helpers to assist with decorating the home ready to surprise the residents on the morning of December 1st. the count down to Christmas is officially on!
Each resident has an advent calendar to count down the days.
Upcoming events:
December looks set to be a very busy month with lots going on……..
We have the Christmas tea dance at HG Wells on Wednesday 6th December from 1-4pm. This is always a popular event and it’s an opportunity to dust off the glad- rags!
Tina from High Kicks and Heels will be doing her Christmas show on Wednesday 13th December at 2pm. This will be a fabulous show for sure.
Pub lunches will continue every fortnight with our Christmas lunch on Monday 18th December. We are hoping to get as many residents there as possible!
The Christmas church service will take place at Elmfield at 2:30pm on Tuesday 19th December. There will be mince pies and Christmas carols too.
On Wednesday 20th December we have been invited to a Christmas Tea Afternoon at Bisley Hall from 1:30-4:30pm with carols, stalls, a raffle and tea and cakes. We will be supporting the local community and I am sure there will be a good turnout. We are very lucky to live in a village with so much going on.
On Thursday 21st December a group of residents will be attending the beautiful carol service at Guildford Cathedral. This has been popular in recent years and the cathedral has undergone renovations recently. The service starts at 10:30am so it will be an early get up but will be worth it. Tea and mince pies are provided afterwards.
We will be having our resident’s Christmas party on Friday 23rd December. This will be held at the home from 2-5pm. We will be having an entertainer to perform for us and I imagine there will be some Christmas hits mixed in with their song list.
All are welcome! Join us for singing, dancing and an extra surprise!
I’ve heard that Santa will be visiting Elmfield on Christmas Day…….
We will be having a three- course meal on Christmas Day with Christmas crackers, bad jokes, party hats and lots of good food, drink and company!
Christmas is usually a busy day at Elmfield.
Shortly after Christmas we will be taking a trip to the Pantomine in Woking. This year is Robin Hood starring Shane Ritchie. We are looking to go on Friday 29th December dependent on availability.
Staff and resident changes:
Sadly Nadia Tinsley has left Elmfield. She was an army wife and her husband was relocated due to posting.
We had no other changes to staff or residents in November.
Birthdays:
We celebrated Marion’s birthday on 16th November. She turned 96 years old and had a great day with her family. Marion enjoyed a lunch with her family at the Hen & Chickens. She had lots of visitors and received many cards and flowers.
Other news:
Rikki the chiropodist is due on Friday 1st December to attend to our resident’s podiatory needs.
Nicky the hairdresser will be here on the 7th and 20th of December.
Employee of the month:
This month was a difficult one as several staff have worked tirelessly covering shifts at short notice for staff sickness and going above and beyond their expected roles to help out. A big thank you to everyone, your hard work is always appreciated and you are all valued.
However; Charley Teeder has significantly improved her conduct, attitude, work ethic and has also helped cover extra shifts frequently throughout the month.
Several of her colleagues have acknowledged and praised Charley for her notable transformation. Well done Charley and keep up the good work!